Go Back

Baked Chicken Legs

Baked Chicken Legs are moist, tender and packed with savory flavor.  Easy to make with a few simple ingredients. Recipe and photography by Beverly Davis for CornbreadMillionaire.com.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 6 chicken legs

Ingredients

  • 6 each chicken legs Also known as chicken drumsticks.
  • 4 teaspoons hot sauce Or use Cajun sauce.
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons Hickory Liquid Smoke
  • cumin seeds or cumin powder
  • thyme
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  • If desired, remove skin from each leg (optional). Use paper towels to pat each leg thoroughly dry. See Recipe Notes about washing chicken.
  • In a large bowl, thoroughly combine Cajun sauce, Liquid Smoke, cumin (powder or seeds), thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add the chicken legs. Roll around in mixture until evenly coated.
  • Arrange the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour marinade over the chicken legs
  • Baking time depends on thickness.  Bake smaller legs 15-20 minutes before flipping over.  Bake large/thick chicken legs should 20-30 minutes before flipping over.
  • After flipping legs over, bake another 10-15 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting thermometer into thickest part of drumstick all the way to the bone. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
  • Broil for 1 minute or until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

I have always washed my chicken before cooking.  Never, ever had a problem.
Many cooking experts suggest NOT washing first.
This is truly a personal decision.